Date of Award
2016
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Detwiler, Kate M.
Abstract
Cercopithecus monkeys are a species-rich radiation where interspecific mating leads to novel phenotypes due to pelage color and pattern diversity within the genus. The goals of this thesis were to (1) test a new method for studying color objectively in wild arboreal primates, and (2) apply a phenotypic hybrid index (PHI) to known individuals of a hybrid zone between C. ascanius and C. mitis in Gombe National Park, Tanzania through the use of digital photography. I scored seven pelage character states as 0 (C. mitis), 0.25 (mitis-like), 0.50 (intermediate), 0.75 (ascanius-like), or 1 (C. ascanius). Photos indicate most phenotypic hybrids express a white nose spot, but all other regions of pelage color and pattern are variable, and an assortment of hybrid phenotypes are seen at Gombe. Results indicate it is currently not possible to extend parameters for assessing color objectively with RGB values, but numerical non-RGB methods show promise.
Extent
73 p.
Recommended Citation
Tapanes, Elizabeth, "Coat Color Variation Between Red-tailed Monkeys (Cercopithecus ascanius), Blue Monkeys (C. mitis), and Hybrids (C. ascanius x C. mitis) in Gombe National Park, Tanzania" (2016). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2010 - 2019. 1415.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_6/1415
Identifier
FA00004636
Comments
Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.A.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2016.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.